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EA making sure all games have online component

EA's Frank Gibeau has talked about his company's push toward online connectivity, noting that he hasn't green lit any games to be developed purely as single-player experiences.

EA games have been notably more connected lately. From Mass Effect to Dead Space, the publisher's traditionally single-player titles are all getting some kind of online hook -- usually in the form of multiplayer modes. EA takes this as a point of pride, and studio present Frank Gibeau has indicated that will continue for the foreseeable future.

"We are very proud of the way EA evolved with consumers. I have not green lit one game to be developed as a single-player experience," Gibeau said at a Cloud Gaming conference reported by Superannuation (via PC Gamer). "Today, all of our games include online applications and digital services that make them live 24/7/365."

The answer came in the midst of boasts about how EA has positioned itself comfortably as the digital model creeped into retail. He says the company is better positioned than companies that are "marooned on one platform," since it hasn't abandoned the consoles for mobile devices and social games. "One of our biggest growth opportunities is Play4Free titles that allow customers to play at no cost and make purchases via microtransactions," he added.

Gibeau also noted the connectivity of the FIFA series, not only with online modes but for cross-platform features and stat tracking with the actual sport. He promised the company will be integrating similar features into other franchises like Madden, Battlefield, and SimCity soon.

Steve Watts

Editor-In-Chief

Steve Watts' youthful memories are are a blur of pixels, princesses, castles, and Mega Busters. After writing about games as a pastime for years, he got his first shot at a paid gig at 1UP. He's freelanced for several sites since then, and found a friendly home at Shacknews. His editorial duties include news, reviews, features, and lunatic ravings. He lives in the Baltimore-Washington area with his shockingly understanding wife.